Drainage cock - types and features

Drain taps are shut-off valves that allow the discharge of fluid from various containers. In some cases, they are an indispensable device for the operation of certain systems, for example, an automatic drain valve for a well drains water from the pipeline, which is necessary for the operation of the water intake system in winter. Below we take a closer look at the features of these devices and their areas of application.

Types of device

So, the drain or as it is called, the water folding tap is a device for draining water. We use these taps every day, as they are installed near every sanitary fixture, such as a bathroom, a washbasin, a sink, etc. (See also the article How to choose a sink: features.)

In other words - they are mounted at the end of the pipeline. True, the drain valve, as a rule, is understood as a shut-off valve, which, as mentioned above, allows for the natural discharge of fluid from various containers.

According to the type of locking mechanism, these devices are not divided into several types:

• Valve;
• Ball;
• Cork.

In many ways, the type of valves depends on the area of ​​application of the device. Therefore, below we take a closer look at the features of each type of mechanism.

Valve

The principle of operation of this valve is based on the fact that the rod tightly presses the elastic gasket to the seat with a hole, as a result of which it blocks the passage for the flow of fluid. During the rotation of the flywheel, the worm gear raises the rod, as a result of which the steamer gradually opens.

The advantages of such a device include the following points:

• The valve is able to withstand high pressure..
• Allows you not only to open or block the flow, but also to regulate the pressure.
• The mechanism is collapsible, so it can be repaired..

Along with the advantages there are some disadvantages:

• Elastic gasket relatively quickly becomes unusable, with the result that the valve begins to "drip". However, it is not difficult to replace the gasket with your own hands.
• To fully open the valve, it is necessary to make a few turns with the handwheel.

For these reasons, valves are usually used for plumbing.

Tip! To extend the life of the elastic locking gasket, do not overtighten the valve when tightening it.

Ball

As a locking mechanism of this device uses a ball with a through hole. When the ball is turned with a hole perpendicular to the spout, the passage is closed. The tightness of the design provide two rubber rings.

Among the advantages of ball valves can be identified:

• Reliability due to simplicity of design;
• Durability;
• Good tightness and ability to withstand high pressure and temperature. Therefore, the ball valve can be used for a water heater or other similar devices.
• To fully open or close the passage, you need to rotate the lever only 90 degrees, which is very convenient.
• Low price, which is also related to the simplicity of the design.
• The ability to install servos and other mechanisms to ensure the automatic operation of valves.

Drain ball valve along with the advantages has some disadvantages:

• The instruction manual allows the use of the product only for complete overlapping or opening of the passage, but not for adjusting the flow. Otherwise, the mechanism quickly fails.
• If the mechanism fails, it can not be repaired.

Thanks to these qualities, these products are excellent as a drain. For example, you can use a similar device for a barrel or other container.

Cork

Often cork taps are used for water or other liquids. The principle of operation of this valves is extremely simple - the passage is blocked by a conical plug, the position of which is changed by means of a worm stem.

Such valves are also often used to drain liquids from tanks, as well as in heating systems. True, recently they have been less popular than before, since they have been replaced by ball valves, which are more durable. (See also the article The device of the mixer for the sink: features.)

Tip! The drain valve can be independently cut into any barrel or canister and thus make it more convenient to use.

Crane materials

We considered the options for the device cranes, however, in addition to this, an important difference between them are the materials from which they are made. Most often for them apply:

Conclusion

As we found out, different types of drainage valves can be used for different purposes. The most common in recent times is ball valves. However, if it is necessary not only to drain the liquid, but also to regulate the flow, it is better to give preference to valve counterparts.

From the video in this article, you can read some additional information on this topic.